Cairnhill Community Club (CC), located near Newton MRT station, has reopened after a 11/2-year renovation, with upgraded rooms and more courses aimed at working adults.

"The CC seeks to cater to residents and working adults in the area by offering courses that are customised to serve their needs," said Moulmein-Cairnhill grassroots adviser Melvin Yong at the official opening yesterday.

The offerings include exercise classes such as Zumba, yoga and dance, as well as Japanese and Korean language classes.

The upgraded CC has almost 40 per cent more floor area, with more rooms for activities and two kitchens for culinary classes, up from just one previously, with the new kitchen being halal.

There are also childcare services, enrichment and music classes for children, as well as a mini- golf range and a cafe.

Its multi-purpose hall is now air-conditioned and there is a sheltered drop-off point.

"It's much improved - better rooms, better facilities," said Mr Olivier Bockenmeyer, 45, who works in marketing and has lived in the area for seven years.

His 15-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son enjoy the new basketball court located on the third floor, added Mr Bockenmeyer, who is a French citizen.

Another resident, retiree Cindy Tan, 64, is interested in the cooking classes, some of which are offered in Mandarin.

Adviser to Tanjong Pagar grassroots organisations Chan Chun Sing, who was guest of honour at the opening, said it was important for CCs to be relevant to the area they serve.

At the same time, the CC relies on its residents, noted Mr Chan, who is also Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Secretary- General of the National Trades Union Congress. "This CC will be an empty building if not for your contributions," he said.

He and other grassroots advisers toured the CC, getting a taste of the activities on offer.